The Resonator Awards, an initiative led by Grammy-winning mastering engineer Emily Lazar, recently brought together a diverse group of artists and industry professionals to celebrate those who are defining the future of music. Beyond recognition, the ceremony served as a powerful platform to confront the persistent gender disparities within the music industry, particularly in technical and production roles. Lazar's organization, We Are Moving the Needle, which champions access and opportunity for women and gender-expansive individuals in music, was at the heart of this transformative event, showcasing a commitment to fostering a more equitable and inclusive creative landscape.
Held at the renowned Chaplin Studios and expertly hosted by Fred Armisen, the evening was a vibrant gathering of musical talent, from established legends to emerging voices, alongside the crucial behind-the-scenes figures who bring music to life. Presenters like Olivia Rodrigo, Joni Mitchell, Laufey, and Addison Rae underscored the broad support for the event's mission. Among the distinguished honorees were Chappell Roan, Chaka Khan, and St. Vincent, recognized for their profound cultural contributions. Other notable attendees included Niecy Nash, John Mayer, Bon Iver, Maggie Rogers, and Dave Grohl, all united in their appreciation for the celebrated work.
Emily Lazar founded the Resonator Awards as a direct response to a glaring issue within the music industry: the significant underrepresentation of women in technical roles such as producers and engineers. Lazar highlighted the stark statistics, noting that out of 58 producer and engineer credits for a recent Album of the Year, only three were women, and merely one was credited solely as an engineer. This imbalance extends throughout the history of the Grammys, with only nine women ever nominated for Producer of the Year, Non-Classical, and none in 2026. Lazar emphasized that this pattern is not coincidental but a systemic problem rooted in a lack of access and opportunity, rather than a shortage of talent.
Lazar's organization, We Are Moving the Needle, is dedicated to dismantling these barriers. Operating under four core principles—Educate, Equip, Energize, and Equalize—the nonprofit has, since 2021, distributed $875,000 in scholarships and grants. Recipients also benefit from one-on-one mentorship through the organization’s advisory SoundBoard, affectionately referred to by Lazar as the 'fairy godmothers' of the industry. The impact of their work extends beyond professional studios, reaching into educational institutions with 22 college chapters and an Amplitude Youth Program that engages students as young as middle school. The overarching goal is to normalize the presence of women in creative authority roles, fostering a future where such representation is expected, not surprising, driven by the belief that 'if you can see it, you can be it.'
The awards categories thoughtfully highlighted both prominent and behind-the-scenes creative efforts. Chappell Roan received the Harmonizer Award for using music as a catalyst for social change, presented by Nancy Wilson. St. Vincent was honored with the Golden Trifecta Award for her comprehensive artistic, production, and engineering achievements, presented by Olivia Rodrigo. The HAIM sisters earned the Disruptors Award, while Gena Johnson was acknowledged with the Powerhouse Award for her lasting impact as a producer. Technical excellence was also celebrated, with Bella Blasko and Jayda Love receiving the Exceptional Ears Award, Amy Allen the Calliope Award for songwriting, Alissia the All-Star Award, and Elvira Anderfjärd and Luka Kloser the In Stereo Award. Emily Lazar herself presented the Breakthrough Award to Roselilah. The ceremony also inducted Allee Willis, SOPHIE (posthumously), Elaine Martone, Jaime Sickora, Judith Sherman, Mary Mazurek, and Michelle Sabolchick into the Resonator Hall of Fame, recognizing their enduring legacies.
A highlight of the evening was Chaka Khan’s acceptance of the Luminary Award, presented by the legendary Joni Mitchell. This emotional moment was followed by an all-star musical tribute to Khan, featuring Sia, Danielle Haim, Maggie Rogers, and Lalah Hathaway, who later joined Khan on stage for a powerful performance of 'Through the Fire.' Lazar's vision for the Resonator Awards is ambitious: she hopes they will eventually become obsolete, signifying a future where true parity in the music industry is the norm. While progress has been made, with over 1,000 scholarship applications received last year and only five percent funded, the journey continues, underscoring the urgent need for ongoing support to match the immense talent and hunger for opportunity within the industry.